Khabib dismisses Ilia Topuria’s lightweight title bid, but UFC Legend backs him

Khabib Nurmagomedov has dismissed Ilia Topuria’s bid for a lightweight title shot, but UFC legend Michael Bisping believes the Georgian star has earned his opportunity.

Topuria, fresh off knocking out Alexander Volkanovski to claim the UFC featherweight championship, has made a bold career move by vacating his title and shifting his focus to the 155-pound division. The undefeated Spaniard-Georgian fighter (18-0) has confidently called out lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, insisting he’s ready for the challenge.

However, not everyone agrees that Topuria should get an immediate title shot. Khabib, a longtime mentor to Makhachev, recently dismissed the idea, arguing that Topuria needs to prove himself at lightweight first.

“So Khabib Nurmagomedov came out and said that he doesn’t think Topuria deserves the chance, not without proving himself first at 155,” Bisping said on his YouTube channel.

The former middleweight champion, however, believes Topuria’s dominance at featherweight warrants a direct path to gold at lightweight.

“This is a different scenario. Topuria has moved up, okay. He’s abandoned 145, he’s up to 155, and I think he deserves a title fight. Simple as that,” Bisping argued.

The debate over Topuria’s immediate title contention comes as Arman Tsarukyan, the No. 1 lightweight contender, waits for his own shot at Makhachev. While many believe Tsarukyan should get the next fight, Topuria’s rapid rise and star power could make him a compelling alternative.

Makhachev, who has spoken about wanting fresh challengers, may eventually have to decide between a rematch with Tsarukyan or an intriguing clash with Topuria. As speculation builds, the lightweight division remains one of the most exciting in the UFC, with multiple contenders vying for their shot at the throne.